Tag Archive for: variable density

Froth Sumps

Froth sumps collect and handle aerated bitumen froth that separates during oil sands extraction. The mixture contains bitumen, water, air, and fine solids — a challenging fluid that is both abrasive and highly variable in consistency.

Challenges:
Froth slurries cause conventional pumps to lose prime due to entrained air and fluctuating density. The combination of abrasiveness and gas content leads to cavitation, vibration, and reduced efficiency. Maintaining continuous operation in froth-handling systems is a major reliability challenge.

 Solution:
Hevvy/Toyo’s recessed impeller and tank-style pump designs are ideal for froth applications. Their large, open passages reduce air binding and allow smooth handling of aerated slurries. Optional rubber or high-chrome linings extend wear life, while the ability to operate in partially flooded or fluctuating conditions ensures continuous, stable performance in froth sumps.

Sand Dredging

Sand dredging involves excavating and transporting sand from riverbeds, lakes, harbors, or coastal zones for land reclamation, construction, or navigational purposes. It’s one of the most common dredging operations, requiring continuous, high-volume material movement under variable conditions.

Challenges:
Sand is highly abrasive and can rapidly wear down impellers, liners, and bearings. Variable density and particle size cause inconsistent flow and high power consumption. Cavitation, clogging, and maintenance downtime are frequent issues, especially in shallow or sandy environments.

Solution:
Hevvy/Toyo dredge pumps are engineered for maximum durability in abrasive, high-solid environments. Their agitator technology keeps sand suspended, while thick high-chrome construction and replaceable liners extend pump life. Compact submersible options minimize priming issues and simplify deployment for both portable and fixed dredging setups.